2012 Mercedes-Benz S550
Only 5 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 5 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2010 | 15 |
| 2011 | 8 |
| 2012 | 5 |
| 2013 | 7 |
| 2014 | 24 |
| 2015 | 41 |
| 2016 | 15 |
| 2017 | 16 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 5 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
3 of 5 total reports mention: fuel/propulsion system.
Show complaint excerpts
I purchased this vehicle in July 2020. I did a through check for recalls, warranty problems and could not identify any with this vehicle. From the get go the check engine light would come on.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240826
3 of 5 total reports mention: engine.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
VEHICLE CUT ON FIRE WHILE SITTING LUCKY OUTSIDE, THE CORNER OF ENGINE PASSENGER SIDE BELLOW THE HEADLIGHT STORES THE SUSPENSION AIR PUMP AND ELECTRIC HYDRAULIC STEERING PUMP..
NHTSA ODI report, 20210423
I purchased this vehicle in July 2020. I did a through check for recalls, warranty problems and could not identify any with this vehicle. From the get go the check engine light would come on.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240826
THERE IS AN PLASTIC PLUG IN THE OIL SYSTEM THAT LEAKS OIL FROM THE ENGINE ON TO THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD. THIS WAS REPORTED BECAUSE OF INCREASED OIL CONSUMPTION, VAPOR IN THE ENGINE SPACE AND A SMELL OF BURNED OIL.
NHTSA ODI report, 20190409
1 of 5 total reports mentions: steering.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
VEHICLE CUT ON FIRE WHILE SITTING LUCKY OUTSIDE, THE CORNER OF ENGINE PASSENGER SIDE BELLOW THE HEADLIGHT STORES THE SUSPENSION AIR PUMP AND ELECTRIC HYDRAULIC STEERING PUMP..
NHTSA ODI report, 20210423
1 of 5 total reports mentions: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
I purchased this vehicle in July 2020. I did a through check for recalls, warranty problems and could not identify any with this vehicle. From the get go the check engine light would come on.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240826
SAFETY TIMELINE
Mercedes-Benz is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 S400, S550, S550 4Matic, S63 AMG, C300, C300 4Matic, E350, GLK350, GLK350 4Matic, CL550 4Matic, and CL63 AMG vehicles manufactured from April 18
Remedy: Mercedes-Benz will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel filter, free of charge. The recall campaign is expected to begin in February 2013. Owners may contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6
Campaign 12V557000 — check if this car was fixed
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (Mercedes Benz) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 S550, S550 CGI, S63, S600 Bi-Turbo, S65 AMG, S550 4-Matic, and S550 CGI 4-Matic and S400 Hybrid vehicles manufactured f
Remedy: Mercedes Benz will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the tire pressure monitoring unit, free of charge. The recall began on September 12, 2014. Owners may contact Mercedes Benz at 1-800-367-
Campaign 11V493000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2012 Mercedes-Benz S550 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for fuel/propulsion system issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for steering issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 12V557000 (fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
- Verify recall 11V493000 (tires) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2012 Mercedes-Benz S550 reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2012 Mercedes-Benz S550?
The most-reported component is fuel/propulsion system, accounting for 60% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2012 Mercedes-Benz S550 have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.